Many survivors fleeing domestic violence often leave with nothing but the clothes on their backs. The registered charity Woven Earth provides practical support when it’s needed most by furnishing empty homes with pre-loved or new furniture and homewares at no cost. ‘We remove the financial burden and help families affected by violence rebuild their lives in a safe, loving home,’ explains Woven Earth’s Founder CEO Kerryn Thrupp.
The charity provides beds to sleep in, a table and chairs, fridge, washing machine, as well as bedding, towels, cutlery, pots and pans, plus much more – all the items needed to turn a house into a home. Woven Earth operates throughout Tamaki Makaurau, but Kerryn estimates that around 40% of clients come from West Auckland. The charity works closely with many local organisations, including Vision West, Tu Wahine Trust, Victim Support, NZ Police, Family Action, plus many more. Referrals are made by frontline workers, who are already supporting the local family.
Sonia (not her real name) is one Westie who has benefited from Woven Earth’s excellent services. A mum to two young children, Sonia escaped their violent home and had been living in a refuge for five months. The family’s social worker contacted Woven Earth to see whether support would be available once they got a permanent home. The day after Sonia received the keys, the Woven Earth volunteers arrived with vans loaded with personal and household items, transforming their empty house into a warm, comfortable home. Sonia was overwhelmed. ‘Please thank everyone for all the love. This is more than we could have asked for. You beautiful people made this empty house full and have made life better. Seeing the smile on my baby’s face is priceless.’
This month, Woven Earth will reach a significant milestone as it furnishes its 1,000th home. ‘Since starting in 2019, we have supported and empowered over 3,000 lives,’ reports Kerryn. Demand for this much-needed service continues to grow, and Kerryn says the team plans to move into a larger warehouse to bring everything under one roof and improve efficiency.
The Trusts, through the Your West Support Fund, has proudly supported Woven Earth for many years. The latest $20,000 grant has helped with service delivery and operating expenses in West Auckland. ‘Thanks in part to The Trusts, our one-of-a-kind service can continue improving the wellbeing, safety, and quality of life of vulnerable West Aucklanders,’ declares Kerryn.
